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Key Points

Suniel Shetty questions why Bollywood films are struggling while international movies thrive. He highlights issues like expensive snacks and fewer theatres hurting business. Shetty also criticizes corporate producers for lacking passion compared to earlier filmmakers. Despite recent flops, he remains hopeful with his upcoming film Kesari Veer.

Key Points: Suniel Shetty Asks If Bollywood Lost Ground to International Films

  • Shetty blames high concession prices for low footfall
  • Criticizes corporate disinterest in weekend releases
  • Recalls producers' personal stakes in past films
  • Notes recent Bollywood flops like Sikandar
2 min read

Have we allowed them to steal the thunder? Suniel Shetty questions if Bollywood is losing ground to international films

Suniel Shetty questions Bollywood's box office struggles, citing high costs and corporate culture as international films dominate.

"English films are running... Humari filmein aaj 15 lakh ka business nahin kar rahi hain. – Suniel Shetty"

Mumbai, May 1

Actor Suniel Shetty has spoken up about the recent box office struggles of Bollywood films, questioning whether international movies are now dominating the Indian market.

In an interview with ANI, Shetty shared his views on why many big Hindi films are failing at the box office.

"English films are running... Humari filmein aaj 15 lakh ka business nahin kar rahi hain. So, where did we go wrong? Have we allowed the international brands to come and steal the thunder from us? Have we allowed them to take away our business?," Shetty said.

Shetty also pointed to multiple issues affecting the industry, from expensive popcorn to the falling number of theatres across the country.

"Look, we will have to reduce the prices. If the price of popcorn is higher than the ticket price, then it becomes very, very difficult. You know, the number of theatres has to increase. The number of theatres has to multiply by 5x," he said.

Reflecting on the past, Shetty recalled how earlier producers were deeply involved in every part of a film's release. "In our time, when a producer used to make a film, his life used to be tied to that film because he had to pay for it himself or take a loan to make it. For him, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday were make-or-break days."

He also criticised the corporate culture that now dominates the film industry. "And on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, if you call a corporate house, they'll say, 'I'm out for the weekend.' Our business is a weekend business," Shetty added.

Several Bollywood movies, including Salman Khan's recent Eid release Sikandar, have failed to draw large crowds to theatres. Despite this, some recent films like Kesari 2, starring Akshay Kumar, have done well and received positive reviews.

Suniel Shetty will next be seen in 'Kesari Veer', which also stars Vivek Oberoi. Directed by Prince Dhiman and produced by Kanu Chauhan, the film is set to release on May 16.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Suniel Shetty makes valid points! Bollywood needs to focus on original storytelling instead of remakes. Hollywood films offer fresh concepts while we're stuck in the same old masala formula. Time for reinvention! 🎬
P
Priya M.
The problem isn't just international films - South Indian cinema is also doing better than Bollywood these days. Maybe Hindi filmmakers should learn from them about how to balance mass appeal with good content.
A
Amit S.
Completely agree about the popcorn prices! 😂 Last time I took my family to a multiplex, the snacks cost more than the tickets. No wonder people prefer OTT platforms where they can enjoy homemade samosas with movies.
N
Neha T.
Bollywood needs to stop blaming others and look within. Most films these days are either remakes or sequels with no soul. Meanwhile, regional cinema is thriving because they respect their audience's intelligence.
V
Vikram J.
Shetty sahab is right about corporate culture ruining the passion. Earlier films were made with heart, now it's all about ROI calculations and brand integrations. Where's the art in cinema anymore?
S
Sanya R.
It's not about international vs Indian films. Audiences just want good content! Look at '12th Fail' - a simple Hindi film that worked because it was honest. Quality will always find its audience 🌟
K
Karan P.
The theatre experience needs to improve. Dirty seats, poor maintenance, and rude staff - why would anyone pay 500₹ for this?

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